The story features a young girl whose grandfather dies from Ebola and puts the rest of her family at risk. The film makes visible the invisible Ebola germs to help people realize how Ebola spreads and how to protect themselves. Critical messages are woven through the story so that people better understand Ebola, see themselves within the context of an outbreak, and learn how to keep themselves safe from the disease and protect their communities.
The Story of Ebola represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Yoni Goodman brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
The production of The Story of Ebola took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
The costume department created over 243 unique costume pieces for the production.
The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
In 2015, when this film is released:
Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Story of Ebola shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lemon Tree, which focuses more on action than character development, The Story of Ebola subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Fasten Your Seatbelts and When explore similar territory, The Story of Ebola stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.